218 PLANTS OF NEW ZEALAND 



Linaceae. 



THE FLAX FAMILY. 



Distribution. A large family, found chiefly in tropical regions, and not 

 unlike the Malvaceae in the mucilaginous character of the seeds, and the 

 tenacity of the fibres. Linseed Oil is prepared from the oily seeds of the 

 Linum (or flax), and the woven material known to us as linen takes its name 

 from this plant, which produces it. The flowers of the flax are of a delicate 

 pale-blue, and the petals fall readily. 



Genus Linum. 



This is the largest genus of the order, and is usually found in temperate 

 climates. The New Zealand species is endemic, but several other species have 

 been naturalized. 



Linum monogynum (The True New Zealand Flax). 



A perennial woody herb, 6 in. -24 in. in height, with pale-green shining 

 leaves, and terminal corymbs of white, maUow-like flowers. Flowers lin. in 

 diameter. Usually found on dry banks and cliffs, especially near the coast. 

 North and South Islands, Stewart Island, Chatham Islands. Fl. Oct. -Jan. 

 Native name Rauhuia. 



This is the true New Zealand flax ; the plant which is usually 

 so called being a lily. The only point of resemblance between 

 the two plants is the possession by each of a strong fibre. 



Rutaceae. 



THE EUE FAMILY. 



Distribution. A large family, found in warm and tropical regions. These 

 plants are usually remarkable for their powerful and aromatic odour. The leaves 

 contain glands filled with a bitter volatile oil. The common Rue (Ruta 

 graveolens) is used in medicine as an anti-spasmodic. Dictamnus fraxinella, 

 the false Dittany, is said to exhale so much of this volatile oil that the 

 surrounding air becomes charged with it, and faint flashes of light may be 

 obtained on warm still evenings, if a flame be brought near the plant. Of the 

 78 genera comprised in the order, only two are found in New Zealand. 



